Sharing knowledge has always been one of the greatest joys in my professional life. Whether it’s through teaching in a classroom, giving a talk at a conference, leading a seminar, or even participating in a podcast, the experience is different every time. The content may often overlap, but the way I approach each of these situations depends entirely on the context, audience, and setting.
When I walk into a classroom, for example, I approach the topic in a structured way, with the intention to foster learning and discussion. My goal is to engage students, stimulate their curiosity, and invite them to think critically. A classroom environment encourages interaction, so I adapt by inviting questions and creating space for conversation. In contrast, a conference is a much different setting. The audience may be larger and more diverse, with attendees from various fields and backgrounds. There, my role is to deliver clear, impactful ideas within a limited timeframe, often without the luxury of deep discussion. A conference talk requires precision and clarity, as the focus is more on inspiring or informing than engaging in lengthy dialogue.
Then there’s the seminar setting, which strikes a balance between formal delivery and open dialogue. In a seminar, I can dig deeper into specific topics, often with a group of peers or professionals who share a common interest. This setting allows for more interaction than a conference but still demands a clear structure to maintain the flow of the session. Lastly, podcasts are an entirely different platform. Here, the delivery is much more conversational, often informal, with the goal of making complex ideas accessible to a wide audience. It’s an opportunity to break down difficult concepts in a way that anyone can understand, while still keeping the conversation engaging.
What I’ve learned through these experiences is that adaptability is key. You can’t take the delivery style used in a conference and apply it to a classroom. Nor can you use the relaxed tone of a podcast for a formal seminar. Each platform requires you to adjust your approach, taking into account not only the audience but also the setting, timing, and even the expectations of the event. The ability to read the room, whether virtual or physical, is an essential skill that allows you to improvise when necessary and adjust your message to better resonate with the listeners.
In many ways, this adaptability reminds me of leadership. Just as leadership is an art, requiring the right balance of vision, empathy, and decision-making, so too is public speaking. It’s not just about standing in front of an audience and delivering information. It’s about connecting, engaging, and inspiring people. It’s about making your message clear and relevant, while also leaving room for interaction and feedback. Much like leadership, speaking to an audience requires constant adjustment. No two audiences are the same, and no two talks are ever identical. What works in one setting might fall short in another, which is why I always try to be flexible and in tune with the atmosphere and needs of the group.
Ultimately, what I find most rewarding is the process itself. There’s a certain joy that comes from engaging with others, from seeing the lightbulb moments when someone grasps a concept or feels inspired by an idea. It’s the connection that forms between speaker and audience—the energy that flows back and forth—that makes it all worthwhile. Whether I’m in front of a small classroom or a large conference hall, these moments remind me why I’m so passionate about sharing knowledge. It’s more than just transferring information; it’s about creating an experience that resonates long after the session ends.
In the end, every opportunity to speak or teach is a chance to learn as well. Each interaction, each audience, brings its own set of challenges and insights. And for me, that’s where the beauty lies—in the art of adapting, connecting, and growing through the act of sharing knowledge.
